What happens if an insect can't molt anymore?

If an insect can't molt anymore, it faces serious survival challenges, as molting is essential for growth and development. Insects rely on molting to shed their exoskeleton and accommodate their growing bodies. Without the ability to molt, they can become physically stunted, unable to transition to the next life stage, and may eventually die due to factors like predation, inability to reproduce, or resource competition. This condition can be caused by various factors, including hormonal imbalances, environmental stressors, or physical damage.